Ma'halath is a name found in the Old Testament, associated with two distinct individuals and possibly a musical term. The name Ma'halath is derived from the Hebrew root meaning "sickness" or "a harp," depending on the context. This entry will explore the occurrences and significance of Ma'halath in the biblical narrative.

1. Ma'halath, Daughter of Ishmael: Ma'halath is first mentioned in Genesis 28:9 as a daughter of Ishmael, Abraham's son. She becomes the wife of Esau, Jacob's brother. The Berean Standard Bible states: "So Esau went to Ishmael and married Mahalath, the sister of Nebaioth and daughter of Ishmael son of Abraham, in addition to the wives he already had" (Genesis 28:9). This marriage is significant as it reflects Esau's attempt to align himself with the Abrahamic lineage through Ishmael, perhaps in response to his parents' disapproval of his Canaanite wives (Genesis 26:34-35).

2. Ma'halath, Wife of Rehoboam: Another Ma'halath is mentioned in 2 Chronicles 11:18. She is the wife of Rehoboam, the son of Solomon and king of Judah. The text reads: "And Rehoboam married Mahalath, who was the daughter of David’s son Jerimoth and of Abihail, the daughter of Jesse’s son Eliab" (2 Chronicles 11:18). This Ma'halath is notable for her royal lineage, being a descendant of King David, which would have strengthened Rehoboam's claim to the throne and solidified his political alliances within the tribe of Judah.

3. Ma'halath as a Musical Term: The term Ma'halath also appears in the titles of two Psalms, specifically Psalm 53 and Psalm 88. In these instances, it is often interpreted as a musical or liturgical term, possibly indicating the tune or style to which the psalm was to be sung. The Berean Standard Bible titles these psalms as "For the choirmaster. According to Mahalath. A Maskil of David" (Psalm 53:1) and "A Song. A Psalm of the sons of Korah. For the choirmaster. According to Mahalath Leannoth. A Maskil of Heman the Ezrahite" (Psalm 88:1). The exact meaning of Ma'halath in this context is uncertain, but it may suggest a somber or plaintive melody, fitting the themes of lament and supplication found in these psalms.

In summary, Ma'halath is a multifaceted term in the Bible, referring to individuals connected to significant biblical figures and possibly a musical notation. Each occurrence of Ma'halath contributes to the rich tapestry of biblical history and worship practices.Ma'halath (2 Occurrences)

Genesis 28:9
Esau went to Ishmael, and took, besides the wives that he had, Mahalath the daughter of Ishmael, Abraham's son, the sister of Nebaioth, to be his wife.
(See RSV)

2 Chronicles 11:18
Rehoboam took him a wife, Mahalath the daughter of Jerimoth the son of David, and of Abihail the daughter of Eliab the son of Jesse;
(See RSV)

Ma'halath (2 Occurrences)
Ma'halath. Mahalath, Ma'halath. Mahali . Multi-Version Concordance Ma'halath
(2 Occurrences). Genesis 28:9 Esau went to Ishmael, and ...
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Mahalath (6 Occurrences)

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Mahali (1 Occurrence)

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